Post Covid-19 Hair Loss – Is that a thing?

Author: Vivian Benjamin

​

Covid-19 has brought despair to our lives. People have been emotionally and physically impacted by this still-spreading disease. Furthermore, an enormous volume of scientific articles has been published, that aim to outline the individuals lasting health effects, with hair loss being one of the most prevalent. As a result of dysregulation of the hair growth cycles, an occurrence called telogen effluvium (TE) arises.



This phenomenon is not uncommon however, it has been increasing significantly during the pandemic. After two to three months of being infected, approximately 25% of Covid-19 patients experience acute classic telogen effluvium. On the other hand, early onset of TE has been found within less than two months after contracting Covid-19, particularly in severe cases.


The direct influence of high levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines on hair follicles may be associated with this early–onset TE phase, as severe cases of SARS-CoV2 are typically demonstrated by higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in addition to; decreased host antiviral responses. Moreover, this could induce the formation of microthrombi in the hair follicles, which could lead to a blocked blood supply in our hair follicles.



​Thanks to the misinformation and unverified data about post-Covid-19 hair loss, people may be undeniably misguided into believing non-evidence-based practices to solve this issue. Statistic has shown, that a huge rise in searches using the keywords “hair loss” has been noticed in Google Trends, following the emergence of the Covid-19 pandemic.





Causes of Hair Loss
Let’s explore this situation further. We all lose hair at some point in our lives. Research states that humans lose approximately around 100 hairs per day. Many don’t even notice it, but it’s an alarm bell ringing for some of us, especially women.



This is because hair is an important part of a person’s physical appearance. Healthy, luscious hair not only makes us feel good but it gives us confidence. Various factors play a crucial role in keeping your hair healthy – overall hair health depends on the food consumed, lifestyle choices, stress management, and products used on hair.



Poor Diet

1. Insufficient calories and protein intakes
Cells in our hair follicles multiply and restore old cells at a quicker rate. Therefore, the hair is quite sensitive to deficiencies in protein and calories. Our hair is made up of a protein called keratin. Thus, protein is significantly important in hair growth. Essentially, the body needs all the macronutrients (carbohydrates, fat, and protein) to flourish, including the hair.


However, try including more fibrous food such as whole grains, than simple carbohydrates like white rice and white bread. Receding hairline, dandruff or dry scalps, and hair loss are all due to reduced intakes of protein. In the same way, if you’re not eating high-calorie food, you will have less energy to nourish your hair and scalps.

Examples of food:

• Carbohydrates - Whole grains such as buckwheat, barley, oats

• Protein – eggs, oily fish, beans, pulses, legumes

• Good fats – nuts (almonds, walnuts) & seeds (chia seeds, flax seeds)

 
 

2. Iron deficiency
Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency in the world, contributing to TE. However, there is insufficient evidence of the effects of replacing Iron on the outcome of TE, although some advantages have been recorded in a few controlled studies.

Examples of food:

• Beans and legumes
• Leafy greens such as spinach
• Sun-dried tomatoes

 
 3. Zinc deficiency
Zinc cannot be generated in the body so; it must be consumed through diet. Eating large amounts of cereal grain has contributed to zinc deficiency in many people, according to a study. This is because cereal grains contain phytate, a chelating agent, which decreases zinc consumption. Pregnancy, malignancy, burns, alcoholism, and infection may all be a factor, which increases metabolism and zinc excretion. It can be found in meat, fish, and seafood.
 

4. Vitamin B deficiency
Out of all the types of vitamin B complex, only riboflavin, folate, vitamin B12, and biotin have been associated with hair loss, according to a recent study. However, some studies suggested only biotin. Vitamin B complex in general is important for body functions , so nourishing ourselves with food containing this nutrient is vital. Examples of food include leafy greens, broccoli, peas, and beans.
 


Lifestyle choices
Smoking, alcoholism, and stress can all lead to hair loss. Smoking increases your body’s production of free radical damage, which damages the hair follicle. On the other hand, there is no direct link that states alcohol contributes to hair loss, instead consuming too much alcohol leads to nutritional deficiency, which consequently will damage the hair. Stress can lead to depression, anxiety, digestion and sleep issues, therefore reducing hair growth.  

 

Additional causes of hair loss:

• Certain types of medication
• Hormonal issues
• Health issues such as thyroid disease, autoimmune disease
• Hair treatments and products

 



How to support your hair from the inside
Besides incorporating iron, vitamin B complex, protein, and calories in your body, there are other ways nutrition can support your hair health. A diet consisting of vitamin A, D, E, and C diet has been shown to keep your hair healthy. Omega-3 is also essential in preserving your hair growth.

 

How to support your hair from the outside
Your hair doesn’t need to be washed every day unless it is dirty or oily. Try washing only 2-3 times a week as this will also help prevent dry scalp. Scalp and hair are correlated, therefore, taking care of both is vital. We always feel good and rejuvenated after a spa or a body massage. That same theory applies to your scalp.


Coconut oil and sesame oil have great potential for healthy hair growth. Coconut oil helps make your hair shiny and healthier (I know it did for me). Try applying any one of those oils and massage it into your scalp and hair as part of your self-care routine. Leave it for an hour and then wash your hair. It works miracles, however, be sure to check with a dermatologist if you have skin problems.


Another method to sustain your hair health is to exercise regularly, since being active has shown evidence to improve overall health and well-being. In addition to that, manage your stress and take care of your mental health.


 




All in all
Although Covid-19 had made changes to our bodily functions, by affecting our hair health, we can still create changes in our lives that can enhance the process of hair growth. The best intervention would be a holistic approach. Nevertheless, you should always consult your dietician or physician to assist you in this journey, as different individuals may respond differently to treatments.
 




​
 
 
 
References

1. Marius Nicolae Popescu, Mihai Berteanu, Cristina Beiu, Liliana Gabriela Popa, Mara Mădălina Mihai, Madalina Gabriela Iliescu, Ana Maria Alexandra Stănescu& Anca Mirela Ionescu (2022) Complementary Strategies to Promote Hair Regrowth in Post-COVID-19 Telogen Effluvium, Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 15:, 735-743

1. Seyfi S, Alijanpour R, Aryanian Z, Ezoji K, Mahmoudi M. (2022) Prevalence of telogen effluvium hair loss in COVID-19 patients and its relationship with disease severity. J Med Life.15 (5):631-634.
2. Almohanna HM, Ahmed AA, Tsatalis JP, Tosti A. (2019)The Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss: A Review. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 9(1):51-70.
3. Guo EL, Katta R. Diet and hair loss: effects of nutrient deficiency and supplement use. Dermatol Pract Concept. (2017); 7(1):1-10.